Ayittey Powers Fails To Win C'wealth Title

Richard Williams regained the Commonwealth light-middleweight title with a stoppage of Ghana's Ayittey Powers at London's York Hall on Saturday.

Williams, who first won the title three years ago, dominated the fight until the referee called a halt in the dying seconds of the seventh round.


The 32-year-old from Stockwell, south London, lost his IBO title to Spain's Sergio Martinez last year and had not fought since.


But after a quiet opening Williams was always on top and rocked his opponent towards the end of the fourth round.


A telling combination of punches, including a thumping left-hand to the body, saw Powers almost go down before he summoned the strength to make it to the bell.

That offered only a temporary respite however and it was no surprise when the referee stepped in when Powers looked unable to defend himself against a flurry of head punches.


"I'm more like what I want, compared to the last two fights it was back to form," said Williams on Sky Sports 1. "I'm feeling better.


"I knew there was something wrong (against Martinez) but look for me to be back in proper form soon.


"I found it hard going in places but the work we are doing in the gym is paying off."